Yams are sugary, so feed them to guinea pigs in moderation. Raw, small-cut yams are best.
Treats should only be given occasionally. Never feed guinea pigs nuts, seeds, or meat.
Yams contain Vitamin C, which guinea pigs need to survive. Guinea pigs need yams because Vitamin A boosts defense. Guinea pigs get Vitamin C and vitamins from cooked yams. Guinea pigs can only eat raw yams, so don’t boil them. Seeds and pits in cooked yams can hurt your guinea pig. Cut up the yam so your guinea pig can eat it rapidly.
Yams are good for guinea pigs in proportion. Guinea pigs’ varied diets can upset their gastric systems. Guinea pigs cannot eat baked yams or other foods. While not toxic, yams’ fermentable carbs can cause digestive upset. Guinea pigs and rabbits should have at least five kinds of leafy greens to avoid nutritional excesses.
My guinea pig likes yams. I wash and cut the yam into small pieces to protect my pet from choking. My guinea pig is healthy and happy twice weekly on yams and leafy leaves. However, every guinea pig is different, so contact a vet before adding new foods.
Yams are a good source of vitamin C
Guinea pigs need vitamin C for immunity. Scurvy causes an unhealthy coat, gum or skin ulcers, diarrhea, tooth issues, and swollen feet and joints.
Guinea pigs need vitamin A-rich yams. They are rich in calcium and should be alternated with lower-calcium vegetables.
Guinea pig snacks contain fiber and potassium, which boost their energy and health.
For vitamins, feed your guinea pigs a range of fruits and vegetables daily. They should eat hay, food pellets, and one cup of fresh fruit.
Yams are a good source of potassium.
Guinea pigs need potassium for healthy hearts, lungs, and kidneys. They also need Vitamin C because they cannot make it themselves.
Bananas provide 3.6 mg of potassium per gram. Bananas regulate blood flow, reduce muscle cramping, fight arthritis, and avoid kidney stones.
Bananas are sugary. Give them a thin piece once or twice a week to boost your guinea pig without harming them. This will satisfy them without overtaxing their system.
Yams are a good source of iron.
Guinea pigs need lots of iron to make blood cells and maintain muscle function. Iron makes hemoglobin and myoglobin, which carry oxygen throughout the body.
Guinea pigs need calcium for bone health, but not too much. Guinea pigs get severe bladder stones from excess calcium.
Fresh leaves give your guinea pig vitamins and minerals. Offer fresh carrots, broccoli, red peppers, or other veggies once or twice a week.
Yams are a good source of fiber.
Guinea pigs need a high-fiber diet. This makes their bodies healthy and happy.
Guinea pigs get fiber from greens and herbs. Parsley, romaine lettuce (not iceberg), cantaloupe, dandelion leaves, and cilantro.
Guinea pigs need 10-30 mg of vitamin C daily, which some veggies provide. Vitamin C deficiency can cause painful and crippling scurvy.
Orange pieces are a good source of Vitamin C for guinea pigs. However, guinea pigs cannot digest fruits and may become overweight or ill from the sugar.
